As per the subject line, I think that it would be interesting to know what type of cookset our fellow hikers use on a multi-day hike and why?

Additionally, if you are currently using a cookset and you are not happy with it, tell us why.

I currently use a old school, government issued Dixie set. It’s a bit heavy weighing in at 522grams but it holds sentimental value as my dad and I both used them while on patrol. Other than the weight, heat conduction is great and the bigger Dixie can hold ± 1L

I am a big fan of these billy sets. The set comes in three different sizes ranging from 1.2L to 3L so perfect to break up as per the needs of a 1 person or group set. The whole set weighs 700grams but it can be split between a group. It also nests perfectly together with the smallest one a perfect size to hold the gas canister.

What I love most about these are the handles which can be used to hang above a fire or coals to cook your food if you do not have gas. I have unfortunately not yet found these in South Africa.

Since I’ve been married and cooking for two, the 1-litre pot got a bit small. Also the meals went up a notch from 2-minute noodles Now we use the MSR Alpine 4 pot set. It has a 1L, 2L and 3L pot, but the 1L generally stays at home. They’re expensive, but work really well and last a lifetime. The MSR Alpine 2 pot set is also a great option.

I like the fact that your canister and stove can fit into the above pot-sets. I would say that this is another downside to my Dixie’s. This being said i still have enough space for my cleaning utensils and our sporks and therefore, i’m not wasting this space.

I would like to upgrade from my Dixies but for some reason i cant find a set which grabs my attention or offers a substantial benefit.

@Douweg I like the handles on those pots and the depth of that frying pan

I use the MSR Alpine cookset (2 & 3L) for car camping. Still going strong, purchased in 1999. Complete now with bear claw scratch.
For Backpacking I use Evernew Ti pots (insulated handles): 1.3L and 0.9L and/or Snowpeak Ti mug (gas canister can fit inside & a teeny stove)
I don’t like carrying heavy.
I’ll take all of the above if going with the wife, else the Mug is all I need for boiling water for coffee, blanching broccoli etc.
Not a fan of cooking on hikes. Need something quicker, as Mr Grumpy at night.

I use a White Box Stove. (Google it). This must be the lightest and most minimalist stove by far. Fuel (methylated spirits) is cheap and easily obtainable and it boils a mug or two of water in no time. So why don’t the hiking stores sell them? I have yet to receive a satisfactory answer.

why don’t the hiking stores sell them? I have yet to receive a satisfactory answer.

@Richard, a lot of the hiking stores are in malls/ centers, which prohibit the stores from stocking certain items or chemicals. Additionally, the insurance will be through the roof due to potential fire hazards and third party claims; should a demo go wrong.

There was a similar unit on the market about 5 years ago. It was a thick green gel based liquid which served as the fuel. It was marketed as a eco-friendly fuel source as the gases released were not harmful to the environment. Long story short, due to user error an unfortunate young lady spilt the gel over herself. The gel stuck onto her and the more she tried to wipe it off, the more the fire and gel spread. She sued the company and soon the product vanished from the shelves - I guess retailers and manufacturers just don’t want to take that chance

Yes that makes a lot of sense. I could have added that one shouldn’t be using one after having a few drinks… But other types of stove can go wrong too and I have seen one of those any-type-of-fuel pump up things departing the camping area in the form of an out of control flaming comet after being flung from a tent it had nearly set alight…

Cooking with a white box stove requires practice and I enjoy the challenge. Although the flame isn’t easily adjustable, I can cook pasta and even rice by placing the pot in a beanie which functions like a haybox, after the flame has gone out.